Trip to RSA

In December of 2011 I had the first visit back to see my family and close friends in South Africa. Not seeing family for 4 years is a long time frame and you really do treasure the time to be reunited with the family. Seeing all the kids grown up and how the landscape and neighborhoods have evolved in such a short space of time.

First impressions last and Johannesburg looked cleaner than I remember it to be with new highways and very litter to speak of. But 20km from the airport we ran into a traffic jam at the junction onto the N3. In true SA style motorists expressed no patience and began to make U turns on the off ramp and drive on the emergency shoulder against the traffic flow. Chaos ensued and we finally got to Marks house 2 hrs later.

As we sat out on the back stoep and enjoyed a brandy and coke it brought back good memories under clear African skies and perfect temperatures. What a climate SA has, must still be amongst the best in the world for weather.

We flew down to Durban two days later after many braais and brandies. In durbs we meet the whole family at the airport with banners and all. It was great to see everyone again and good to be back in a summer season.

Thanks to all the family and friends we went onto to have a fantastic Christmas and new year celebrating and laughing over old memories and talking about all the hurdles that people have to encounter each day in SA that others take for granted.

I enjoyed every moment and got to catch up with the whole family and a few good mates. It is always special being able to celebrate Christmas at home with the family.

Bitter sweet because I also got to say goodbye to my auntie Joy before she passed on this December and she will be missed and never forgotten.

I was amazed at the size of new residential developments and the number of compounds that exist between jhb and PTA. I was surprised that having to drive a car on the left hand side of the road was second nature again without thinking twice about direction and which way to go. Booking a hired car from abroad certainly proved beneficial and the rate was far better than any local offers.

Durban is same old same old. Good weather great surf and an untamed coast line. Bronze beach in umhlanga still remains one of the better beach spots to hang out at.

Stewart and Madeline treated us to a five star welcome , drinks at the oyster box on the balcony and an awesome dinner at umdloti.

We also got to catch up with Terri and Silvia, Sam, stu, Estienne and candy. It was great to see all of them and the kids. Miss the good chats and laughs listening to old war stories.